Kitchen units and modules

Solid wood kitchen furniture: authenticity for a sustainable kitchen

Long regarded as merely a functional room, the kitchen has now become one of the most important spaces in the home. It is a place for living, sharing, passing on traditions and socialising. It is where we prepare our daily meals, entertain our loved ones, chat and live our lives. In many modern homes, the kitchen has even become the true heart of the home.

At Uninterieur, we design solid wood kitchen furniture designed to reflect this evolution. Our approach is based on a simple idea: to create furniture that will stand the test of time, whilst retaining a warm, authentic and timeless aesthetic.

Our kitchens are crafted from solid pine or solid oak, two woods renowned for their strength, stability and ability to stand the test of time with elegance. Combined with zinc worktops, our units allow you to create unique kitchens that strike a balance between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design.

Why does solid wood remain a benchmark in the world of kitchens?

In the world of furniture, solid wood holds a special place. Despite the emergence of numerous industrial materials, it is still considered one of the best choices for making durable furniture.

Unlike composite panels or reconstituted materials, solid wood possesses natural density, high mechanical strength and a unique ability to age gracefully. It does not seek to imitate a material: it is the material.

In a kitchen, this makes a world of difference. A piece of furniture is constantly under strain: repeated opening and closing, humidity, temperature fluctuations, the weight of worktops, everyday knocks, and heavy use of drawers or doors. All these factors put materials under severe strain.

It is precisely for this reason that solid wood kitchen furniture remains so sought-after today, by both private individuals and interior design professionals.

Solid wood also has a quality that is often overlooked: it evolves over time. It develops a patina, gains depth and naturally develops character. Whereas some materials age poorly or quickly become dated, solid wood retains a warm and timeless presence.

A kitchen designed as a coherent whole

Designing a kitchen is not simply a matter of arranging furniture. A successful kitchen is, above all, a coherent, practical and harmonious space.

At Uninterieur, we have developed a modular approach that allows you to freely design your kitchen to suit your space and needs.

Our collections allow you to incorporate different types of units:

• Cooking units
• Oven units
• Dishwasher units
• Sink units
• Sideboards and kitchen storage
• Tall units
• Central islands
• Kitchen bars and worktops
• Small and large storage units

Our connecting panels and assembly components allow the various units to be seamlessly joined together to create a cohesive and elegant look.

This approach also makes it easier to adapt the layout in the future: adding a unit, changing the layout or creating a kitchen extension several years after the initial project.

Zinc worktops: a historic material that has made a comeback

Zinc worktops are now making a notable comeback in the world of high-end kitchens and furniture. Yet their use is far from a recent phenomenon.

Historically, zinc was widely used in old bistro counters, certain professional kitchens and many craft workshops. Its resistance to moisture, ease of maintenance and ability to develop a unique patina already made it a particularly popular material.

Today, zinc appeals for similar reasons:

• Resistance to daily wear and tear
• Relatively simple maintenance
• Authentic and vibrant appearance
• Elegant natural patina
• Perfect combination with solid wood

When combined with solid pine or solid oak, zinc creates a particularly sought-after contrast between the warmth of the wood and the mineral texture of the metal.

This combination allows for the creation of timeless kitchens, capable of blending seamlessly into both traditional homes and more minimalist contemporary interiors.

Solid pine: warmth and authenticity

Solid pine is one of the most popular woods in the world of traditional kitchens and cosy furniture.

Its natural grain, light colour and ability to take on different finishes make it ideal for creating cosy and elegant kitchens.

Solid pine also offers several technical advantages:

• Excellent strength-to-weight ratio
• Highly customisable
• Warm and natural atmosphere
• Compatibility with many decorative styles
• Very good value for money

It is ideal for family kitchens, country homes, Mediterranean interiors or kitchens that open onto living areas.

Solid oak: strength and timeless elegance

Solid oak is often considered one of the finest woods in the furniture industry.

Dense, stable and particularly durable, it has been used for generations to make furniture designed to last for decades.

In a kitchen, solid oak immediately conveys a sense of solidity and quality.

Its more pronounced grain, natural depth and elegant ageing allow for the creation of high-end kitchens with a distinct character.

Solid oak is particularly prized for:

• Its very high mechanical strength
• Its long-term stability
• Its noble and authentic appearance
• Its exceptional durability
• Its ability to withstand changing trends

Kitchens suited to modern lifestyles

The way we use our kitchens has changed dramatically in recent years. Today, a kitchen can be:

• A space for everyday meals
• A place for entertaining
• A space for occasional remote working
• A place for family time
• A central room opening onto the living room

This shift calls for a new way of thinking about kitchen furniture.

Furniture must be able to combine aesthetics, ergonomics and functionality, without falling into an overly standardised approach.

It is with this in mind that we develop furniture capable of fitting into a wide variety of projects: contemporary open-plan kitchens, renovated period homes, city flats, cosy family kitchens or more professional projects.

A bespoke kitchen tailored to your home

Every room has its own constraints: unusual angles, old walls, specific ceiling heights, openings, beams or particular layout requirements.

Standard dimensions do not always allow for a truly harmonious result.

That is why we also offer a wide range of bespoke kitchen options.

Depending on your project, we can adapt:

• The dimensions of the units
• The heights
• Depths
• Storage configurations
• The type of worktop
• Finishes
• The overall layout of the kitchen

Bespoke design allows us to create kitchens that are perfectly integrated, visually cohesive and tailored to the practical demands of everyday life.

Furniture designed to last and evolve

At Uninterieur, we believe that kitchen furniture should not be treated as a disposable product.

A well-designed solid wood piece of furniture has the potential for a very long lifespan. It can be maintained, restored, sanded down, modified or upgraded over time.

This approach stands in contrast to a culture of fast consumption where kitchens are replaced after just a few years.

We, on the other hand, believe in sustainable furniture, capable of accompanying a home throughout its life.

Solid wood also offers an ecological advantage that is often underestimated: its reparability.

Whereas some composite materials become difficult to restore when damaged, solid wood can generally be refurbished, repaired or maintained.

Inspiration from traditional kitchens and contemporary interiors

Our kitchens draw inspiration from both traditional French kitchens and the more contemporary interiors seen in modern architecture today.

The combination of solid wood and zinc allows for precisely this aesthetic versatility.

Depending on the finishes chosen, a kitchen can take on:

• A country chic style
• A Parisian bistro atmosphere
• A family home feel
• A high-end industrial aesthetic
• A warm Mediterranean kitchen
• A minimalist contemporary interior

This adaptability is one of the great strengths of solid wood furniture.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about solid wood kitchen furniture

Why choose solid wood kitchen furniture?

Solid wood offers excellent durability, a long lifespan and an authentic aesthetic that is difficult to replicate with industrial materials.

Is zinc suitable for use in the kitchen?

Yes. Zinc has long been used in kitchens and professional worktops for its durability, aesthetic appeal and ease of maintenance.

What is the difference between solid pine and solid oak?

Solid pine creates a warmer, brighter atmosphere, whilst solid oak offers greater density, stability and a more refined look.

Do you offer bespoke kitchens?

Yes. Many elements can be adapted to suit the layout of your room and your project.

Does solid wood require a lot of maintenance?

No. Simple, regular maintenance is usually sufficient to preserve the appearance of solid wood in the long term.

Is the furniture really made of solid wood?

Yes. Our furniture is made from genuine solid wood to ensure strength, stability and durability.

Why are your zinc tops easier to live with on a day-to-day basis?

Unlike many untreated zinc tops available elsewhere, our zinc-steel tops at Uninterieur are treated with a special resin-based protective coating designed for real-world, everyday use. This treatment preserves the authentic look of zinc whilst avoiding the issues often associated with untreated metals.

Can we cook and eat directly on your zinc tray?

Yes. Our finish allows direct contact with food. This is important to us: a zinc tray should look good, but also be genuinely practical for everyday use. You can therefore use your tray naturally, without worrying about any contact with food.

How does it differ from unvarnished raw zinc?

Unprotected raw zinc can quickly become marked, oxidise or become more difficult to maintain. At Uninterieur, we have chosen a colourless VOC A+ finish that preserves the authentic look of the zinc whilst significantly improving its resistance to stains, moisture and everyday wear and tear.

Do your zinc tops require any special care?

No, and that is precisely one of the great advantages of our finish. Whereas some zinc tops require significant care, our models have been designed to be easy to live with on a daily basis. A soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient for routine maintenance.

Why combine zinc and solid wood?

The combination of solid wood and zinc is one of the historic hallmarks of traditional French kitchens and bistro counters. At Uninterieur, we particularly love this blend of the warmth of wood and the vibrant look of metal. The result instantly adds character, without feeling cold or industrial.

Does the zinc retain its charm with this protection?

Yes. Our aim has never been to completely seal the material under an artificial layer, but rather to preserve the natural and authentic look of zinc whilst making it much more suitable for modern use. The worktop thus retains its character, depth and elegance over time.